Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 12 on 19/1/2004.

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For Queen and Country

The Atholl Highlanders are the sole private army in Europe so it's only right they help to safeguard one of Scotland's greatest treasures - Blair Castle. Kate Ennis reports

Talk about a reception! As we approached the majestic white turreted building that is Blair Castle, we were met by formidable kilted men brandishing bayonets. Luckily they weren’t hostile.

The 10 men standing in formation were members of the Atholl Highlanders – an army first formed in 1778 who were granted colours and the right to bear arms by Queen Victoria in gratitude for guarding her during a three week holiday her in 1842.

Now a ceremonial army, they are a colourful asset to the castle, which has been home to the Atholl family since the 1400s, and both the
army and the castle serve Scotland proud.

Today there are 100 hundred men all picked from the local community - you’ll find the local policeman, butcher and undertaker amongst the troops.

As one of the first private houses to become a tourist attraction, it now draws in more visitors than any other in Scotland. On the day of my
visit, big crowds had gathered, intrigued by the guardsmen.

This was a rare occasion. The Highlanders usually appear just once a year in May when the current (11th) Duke of Atholl travels from his home in South Africa to visit the castle and inspect his troops.

After much anticipation the men sprung into action. The leading guardsman barked his orders and the troops marched across the drive. Acanon was loaded and shot with a big bang and a puff of smoke, much to the delight of onlookers. Then the army piper played, signalling that the castle could now be entered. So from one grand recepti.....

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By Kate Ennis

Section : Historic Houses

Page number : 12